Upon their return from "Charger Camp," the incoming freshman class is guided up the front staircase to the Fall Convocation ceremony, an annual Welcome Week tradition at Briar Cliff.

Aug 23, 2013

SIOUX CITY, Iowa – Upon their arrival for the start of the new academic year, new and returning Briar Cliff University students are greeted by Welcome Week, an annual tradition to assist in their transition to campus life.

“Welcome Week is so popular among our new and returning students that it has grown to more than a week,” said Louise Paskey, vice president for Student Development. “BCU students find the atmosphere helps them ease into campus life, have fun and make new friends in the process.”

Highlights for freshmen during Welcome Week include a family picnic; Charger Camp, a BCU immersion experience at Spirit Lake, Iowa; Convocation, a ceremony to officially welcome freshmen to the University; and a presentation on dangers of binge drinking. Freshmen also will receive their iPad tablets and participate in iPad training.

When classes begin on Monday, Aug. 26, all students are treated to donuts, served by staff and faculty, and receive directions to their classes. Games and entertainment on campus are planned during Labor Day Weekend. Slated later that week, the BCU Opportunity Fair offers students a wide range of information on part-time jobs and volunteer opportunities. An array of athletic events are also scheduled, as the Charger volleyball, football, soccer and golf teams start their seasons.

Briar Cliff University is a Catholic institution with an enrollment of more than 1,100 students from 31 states and 11 countries. Students are educated in the Franciscan tradition of excellence in the liberal arts and career preparation in an environment of care, compassion and service.